Ancient Phoenicians are credited with the creation of wire wrap jewelry, but the art form goes nearly 1000 years earlier. In the Biblical record, detailed instructions are given to Moses to construct the tabernacle and the priestly garments and attire. The design for the breastplate of Aaron, the High Priest is found in Exodus 28, verses 15 and on. It was to have 12 gems: sardius (ruby), topaz, carbuncle, emerald, sapphire, diamond, jacinth, agate, amethyst, beryl, onyx and jasper. All were to be set in gold filigree. Filigree was gold or silver hammered into thin sheets, then cut into thin strips and the edges filed smooth, thus making wire. The wire was woven into a basket of filigree and set into the breastplate. Later in Exodus, more detailed instructions were given about setting other gemstones into the rest of the priestly garments. Biblical scholars have placed this event near 1446 BC, nearly 1000 years ahead of the Phoenicians.

This is a small wire tree adorned by tiny bright baubles & a touch of glitter....

Today is my daughter's birthday and to me she is more precious than any gold or gemstone....

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SHAPES